"He believes that in two years I can be looking at British title eliminators."

As well as being a double ABA champion, Barclay has Three Nations honours and has captained England.

"Corby's not known for sportsmen. I love the town, I'm Corby through and through. It would be good to win some titles for Corby

Simon Barclay

But a back injury hindered his chances of getting into the British team ahead of the London Olympics in 2012.

"I thought I had performed well enough but they didn't accept me. But they're the selectors and you can't do anything about it," said Barclay, who will fight at cruiserweight in the professional ranks.

"A couple of years ago I said I wouldn't even think about turning pro until I've boxed for England. I've captained England on one occasion, so I've achieved that goal."